UKTram participates in Interchange 2026 discussions: integrated & decarbonised transport

Light rail part of the national transport conversation

UKTram was pleased to attend Interchange 2026, held at Manchester Central on 3^rd and 4^th March 2026. Described by organisers as the UK’s leading meeting place for the integrated transport infrastructure community, the event brought together clients, decision-makers and industry experts to explore how a more decarbonised, resilient and connected transport system can be delivered.

Tim Bilby, Stakeholder and Innovation Manager, represented UKTram, participating in a roundtable discussion hosted by Hitachi and visiting UKTram members at the event. The programme also featured an update on the Coventry Very Light Rail (VLR) project by UKTram Board Member Nicola Small, and a breakfast briefing hosted by Women in Transport on the second day.

Chris Boardman - Active Travel

Andy Burnham - Mayor of Greater Manchester

Nicola Small Very Light Rail Programme Director for Coventry Council and TfWM

Women in Transport breakfast briefing

Several Mayors, including Andy Burnham, Oliver Coppard, Tracy Brabin and Steve Rotherham, contributed to the event, along with representatives from combined authorities who participated throughout the two-day programme.

One key theme was the sector’s shared ambition to accelerate delivery while prioritising the customer in all future transport systems. Discussions covered rail reform, the development of Great British Railways, bus reform and the impact of devolved funding on local transport networks.

During one discussion, Gary Evans, Director of Customer and Operations at Liverpool City Region, reflected on Liverpool’s policy to offer free travel to young people in care, sharing a story from a young person who explained that the scheme allowed them to visit their siblings, who were also in care, for the first time in a long while. The moment was a reminder of the role public transport can play in supporting communities and improving people’s lives.

Within this wider discussion, light rail was widely recognised as an effective mode for high-density urban journeys, with considerable interest shown in the continued development of Very Light Rail and its potential role in expanding urban transport.

Reflecting on the event, Tim Bilby said: 

“Interchange 26 was a great opportunity to hear from a wide range of speakers and panels discussing ideas, challenges and ambitions for delivering the future of transport. It’s also a valuable networking opportunity, and it was good to see so many UKTram members actively participating throughout the event.” 

As an official supporter of Interchange, UKTram was pleased to take part in discussions bringing together leaders from across the transport sector. The organisation looks forward to continuing its involvement in future events.